Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget
Summary
Odessa is currently facing a massive exodus of city staff following a recent shift in local leadership. This turnover could lead to significant delays or disruptions in the essential services you rely on every day.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 13
- Last 30 days
- 1
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Aug 18, 2026.
Impact analysis
The budget impacts all county services and the final tax rate for residents.
All county residents benefit from the efficient delivery of essential services.
Small business owners faced unexpected costs and potential closure threats.
Mentions & discussions (14)
Final tax vote is Tuesday at City Council
The Odessa City Council took another step toward increasing the property tax rate for FY’26-‘27 by 4.26% during a special meeting Wednesday night while also voting 5-1 to increase utility rates by 3% across the board. A final vote on both is schedule...
Gov. Abbott proposes ban on H-1B visa use for Texas public schools during campaign stop
By Megan Menchaca, The Texas Tribune Texas public schools couldn’t sponsor H-1B visas to hire foreign workers under a ban Gov. Greg Abbott proposed Tuesday. As part of an effort to target foreign influence in the state’s education systems, Abbott sai...
Budget Hearings - Aug 18, 2026
The county is finalizing its budget for the upcoming year. This process involves balancing the needs of various departments, from law enforcement to public works, while keeping an eye on the overall tax burden.
EZ-Rider bus system reports decline in ridership in Midland
MIDLAND, Texas (KOSA) - Ridership is down for EZ-Rider in Midland, but fewer passengers aren’t the only challenge facing the transit system. They are also dealing with a shortage of drivers as it works to...
EZ-Rider bus system reports decline in ridership in Midland
MIDLAND, Texas (KOSA) - Ridership is down for EZ-Rider in Midland, but fewer passengers aren’t the only challenge facing the transit system. They are also dealing with a shortage of drivers as it works to keep ...
Midland Mayor Lori Blong named to EPA advisory committee
The Environmental Protection Agency announced this week that Midland Mayor Lori Blong will be the lone city or state official from Texas named to participate on the Local Government Advisory Committee — an advisory group comprised of state and local ...
Applications open for citizen education program Midland 101
MIDLAND Applications are now being accepted for the 2026-2027 class of Midland 101, the City of Midland’s citizen education program. Over the course of seven sessions, participants gain an in-depth look at local government operations. Classes familia...
City of Odessa announces Citizens UniverCity
ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) - The City of Odessa is giving residents a chance to learn what goes on behind the scenes at city hall. Citizens UniverCity is a seven-week program where participants will meet city...
Citizens UniverCity
Applications are now open for Citizens UniverCity. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Odessa operates through facility tours, hands-on demonstrations, and conversations with city leadership. You’ll also learn how the city’s strategic goals shape dec...
City council has busy week ahead
The Odessa City council has a busy week ahead. On Monday, the council met with staff at Fire Station No. 6 at 8:30 a.m. for a budget workshop that could continue on Aug. 4 in council chambers, if necessary. During the council’s work session on Tuesda...
Landgraf visits with Kermit City Council
KERMIT State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) recently attended a meeting of the Kermit City Council to discuss the priorities of the Winkler County community and answer questions about the upcoming 2027 legislative session. “Local leaders a...
Commissioners Court - Jul 14, 2026
The county is reorganizing library staff to create a youth services department, which helps retain grant funding and saves money by using existing employees.
Commissioners Court - Jan 20, 2026
Local restaurants were frustrated by new fees and a lack of clear communication. The court is allowing a grace period to help businesses comply.
A Right-Wing Cabal Took Over Odessa’s Municipal Government. City Employees Are Heading for the Exits.
A Right-Wing Cabal Took Over Odessa’s Municipal Government. City Employees Are Heading for the Exits. Texas Monthly
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